Animal Ordinances in Mesa County, CO (2026)
3 rules for unincorporated Mesa County, Colorado.
Verified from official government sources
Chickens & Livestock
On urban parcels under half an acre, Mesa County allows up to six chickens or six rabbits (no roosters) per dwelling, kept 20 feet from side and rear lines. Larger and rural parcels follow separate livestock setback and animal-unit rules.
Backyard Chickens & Livestock in Mesa County
Some RestrictionsMesa County Land Development Code § 6.04.B.3.a(1)
(1) On parcels of land less than one-half (1/2) acre in size in the urban zoning districts, chickens and rabbits that are kept outside the residence shall be allowed under the following conditions: (a) No more than six (6) chickens or six (6) rabbits over two (2) months old, or any combination of the two animals, are allowed per dwelling unit. No other domestic livestock or fowl shall be permit...
Exotic Pets
Mesa County's Land Development Code bars keeping nondomestic or exotic animals as an accessory use at a home. Any exotic animal keeping is instead classified as Animal Care/Boarding/Sales and only allowed where that commercial use is permitted under Table 6-1.
Exotic Animal Ban in Mesa County
Heavy RestrictionsMesa County Land Development Code § 6.04.B.2
2. Prohibited Animals The keeping of nondomestic or exotic animals shall not be allowed as an accessory use. The keeping of nondomestic or exotic animals is considered Animal Care/Boarding/Sales and may be permitted in those zoning districts listed in Table 6-1 of this LDC.
Veterinary Clinic Zoning
Mesa County classifies veterinary clinics and animal care, grooming, boarding and training under the Office and Personal Service use category, so where a vet clinic can locate depends on Table 6-1's district-by-district use table rather than a use-specific animal ordinance.
Veterinary Clinic Zoning in Mesa County
Some RestrictionsMesa County Land Development Code § 12.05.B
Examples of personal services include laundromats; photographic studios; photocopy and blueprint services; hair, tanning and personal care services; martial arts studios; art, dance or music classes; taxidermists; mortuaries and crematoriums; private museums; repair of TVs, bicycles, clocks, watches, shoes, guns, appliances and office equipment; tailor; locksmith; upholsterer; veterinarians; an...
All Mesa County ordinances
See every category we cover for Mesa County: parking, noise, fences, fires, animals, pools, and more.
Mesa County Ordinance Hub →